Author
Dorothy Canfield Fisher
1879-1958
Dorothy Canfield Fisher (1879-1958) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Dorothy Canfield Fisher
Understood Betsy
"Understood Betsy" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a children's novel published in 1916. When fragile, anxious Elizabeth Anne is suddenly sent from her overprotective city aunts to distant farming relatives in rural Vermont, she faces a world entirely unlike her sheltered upbringing. At the Putney farm, she encounters one-room schoolhouses, maple syrup making, and unexpected freedoms. As Elizabeth navigates her new life among the practical, no-nonsense Putneys, she begins discovering capabilities within herself she never knew existed. But what will happen when her city aunt wants her back?
The Bent Twig
"The Bent Twig" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story primarily revolves around Sylvia Marshall, a young girl from an unconventional academic family, as she navigates her childhood and gradually begins to understand the complexities of her family dynamic and the world around her. The opening of the book introduces us to Sylvia's idyllic childhood filled with vivid memories, from playing with her siblings to the warmth of her parents' interactions. As Sylvia grapples with her emotions, particularly regarding her Aunt Victoria's perceptions of her family life, she begins to forge her identity. The narrative captures the essence of her family's lively yet chaotic existence, contrasting the academic profundity of her father's world with the more carefree and rustic values represented by her mother and the many visitors that come and go in their home. There's a rich tapestry of early 20th-century social dynamics at play, hinting at the challenges Sylvia will face as she continues to grow and discover her place in society.
What Shall We Do Now?: Five Hundred Games and Pastimes
"What Shall We Do Now?: Five Hundred Games and Pastimes" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a collection of children's games and activities written in the early 20th century. The book aims to alleviate the common childhood question, "What shall we do now?" by offering a wide array of suggestions suitable for various situations, whether at home, outdoors, or in groups. It serves as both a guide for entertaining children and a resource for adults seeking to engage young minds in creative play. The opening of the book introduces the purpose and structure of the content, emphasizing the challenge adults face in providing satisfying answers to children's boredom. Fisher expresses a desire to equip less resourceful children with numerous fun options, ensuring they can enjoy their free time actively. The preface reveals the thoughtful organization of the games, highlighting the inclusion of resources like an index and an appendix for personal additions, which makes the book user-friendly for families and caretakers alike. As the reader delves into the text, they are greeted with a multitude of suggested games, ranging from traditional party games to creative drawing activities, each designed to spark joy and foster interaction among children.
Rough-Hewn
"Rough-Hewn" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces readers to Neale Crittenden, a ten-year-old boy living in the town of Union Hill, where the contrast between affluent and struggling families shapes their experiences. Through Neale’s adventures and interactions, the novel explores themes of childhood innocence, class disparity, and the complexities of personal identity. At the start of the book, Neale is depicted enjoying the simplicity of his boyhood, particularly relishing in playing shinny with friends. The narrative paints a vivid picture of Neale's world as he confidently claims his new shinny stick, a symbol of his youthful pride. However, as the chapter progresses, underlying tensions emerge within Neale's family, particularly around his quiet relationship with his parents, hinting at deeper explorations of family dynamics and societal expectations as the story unfolds. The opening effectively sets the tone for Neale's coming-of-age journey, marking the beginning of significant life experiences and realizations.
The Brimming Cup
"The Brimming Cup" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book delves into themes of love, human connection, and the struggles of modern life, particularly through the lens of two young protagonists, Neale and Marise. Their relationship and emotional depth set the stage for an exploration of the complexities of intimacy and personal truths. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Neale and Marise as they share an intimate and philosophical conversation against the backdrop of a picturesque Italian sunset. They grapple with their feelings about love, loyalty, and the fear of losing their true selves in a relationship. As they convey their deep emotions and fears, glimpses of their past experiences reveal the weight of their expectations for the future. The atmosphere is rich in romantic yearning and introspection, setting a poignant tone for their journey ahead. Marise’s passionate musings on life, truth, and fidelity lay the groundwork for their relationship, illuminating both the joy and peril of love in a world laden with challenges.
Elementary Composition
"Elementary Composition" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher and George R. Carpenter is an educational guide written in the early 20th century. This work aims to enhance the writing skills of students, particularly those in the seventh and eighth grades, by providing a structured approach to the principles of composition. The book covers various elements of writing, including grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and the development of paragraphs and whole compositions. The beginning of "Elementary Composition" introduces the importance of writing as a means of expression. It stresses that every student has likely engaged in various forms of writing, such as letters and narratives, prior to formally studying composition. The authors propose that composition is the art of putting together thoughts in a clear and coherent manner, distinct from grammar, which focuses more on the structure of sentences rather than their meaning. Through the initial section, readers are encouraged to explore their ability to express ideas effectively and to recognize the importance of practice and imitation in improving their writing skills.
A Montessori Mother
"A Montessori Mother" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a publication about educational philosophy written in the early 20th century. The book explores the principles and practices of the Montessori method, a progressive educational approach developed by Maria Montessori, which emphasizes child-led, hands-on learning and individual freedom within structured environments. The author serves as an observer and commentator on the Montessori system, particularly how it can be applied within the family context to enhance the growth and development of children. The opening portion of the book presents Fisher's personal reflections on her experiences with the Montessori approach, particularly her return to America after visiting Montessori schools in Italy. She describes a warm reception from friends and family who, curious about her observations, posed insightful questions aimed at understanding the Montessori method's implications for American children. Through Fisher's eyes, we get to witness the differences between conventional parenting expectations and the revolutionary concepts of independence and self-directed learning that the Montessori philosophy promotes. She expresses both admiration and skepticism regarding these ideas, setting the stage for her exploration of how they can be integrated into the daily lives of American parents seeking the best for their children.
Raw Material
"Raw Material" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a reflective work that intertwines personal narrative with broader observations on life, written in the early 20th century. This book appears to explore themes of creativity, personal expression, and the relationship between life experiences and literature. The opening portion suggests that it delves deeply into the nature of storytelling and the individual's internal dialogue, as seen through the lenses of different generational perspectives. The opening of "Raw Material" presents an introspective voice that discusses the process of thought and creativity, comparing the internal workings of the mind to the formalities of public speaking and literature. The narrator reflects on familial influences, notably through the lens of her grandfather and father, who would often create their own narratives in their minds, akin to a form of mental storytelling. This leads her to contemplate the role of fiction and the tendency of people to turn away from real-life experiences in favor of literary representations, suggesting a disconnect from the vibrancy of authentic life. Each anecdote shared builds a foundation for a deeper exploration of how individuals process their surroundings, emphasizing the power of personal thought in crafting stories both in one's mind and on the page.
The home-maker
"The Home-Maker" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores the themes of gender roles, family dynamics, and the struggle for personal fulfillment through the life of Evangeline Knapp, a devoted mother and housewife. It delves into her frustrations and the challenges she faces in managing her household and children, particularly highlighting her relationship with her often troublesome son, Stephen. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Evangeline as she frantically scrubs the kitchen floor, battling grease stains and her children's disobedience. Despite her tireless efforts, she feels overwhelmed and unappreciated, particularly when her son Stephen goes missing, triggering a moment of deep anxiety. Meanwhile, the family's struggles with illnesses, personal frustrations, and the looming shadow of Evangeline's husband's job insecurity set the stage for a narrative rich with emotional resonance. The opening portion emphasizes Evangeline's devotion and desperation, offering a glimpse into the life of a woman trapped by the demands of her role as a homemaker and the societal expectations of her time.
The Squirrel-Cage
"The Squirrel-Cage" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Emery family, particularly focusing on the youngest daughter, Lydia, as she returns home after a year in Europe, eager to embark on her societal debut. The narrative explores themes of social ambition, personal identity, and the intricate dynamics within the family. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the Emery family, who take immense pride in their home and social standings, achieved through hard work and aspiration. The opening chapters detail the complex emotions surrounding Lydia's return from Europe, her mother's anticipatory excitement, and the societal pressures they face. Lydia's homecoming is marked by nostalgia and the challenges of reconciling her experiences abroad with the familiar yet restrained life in Endbury, leading to deeper inquiries into social expectations and personal fulfillment. The initial interactions hint at potential tensions between Lydia’s romantic ideals and the pragmatic values of her family, setting the stage for her journey and growth throughout the story.
Hillsboro People
"Hillsboro People" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book paints a vivid picture of life in a small Vermont village, exploring themes of community, human connection, and the contrast between rural and urban existences. It reflects on the experiences of the townsfolk as they navigate their lives against the backdrop of the ever-changing world outside their village. The opening of "Hillsboro People" introduces readers to the idyllic yet complex life in Hillsboro, emphasizing the richness of human experience found in close-knit communities. Through the perspective of a narrative voice that observes and reflects on the essence of village life, the story describes the return of a villager who prefers their local connections over the anonymity of city living. It highlights how living in a small town fosters deep empathy for one another, contrasting with the detached interactions common in metropolitan areas. The beginning sets the stage for the exploration of characters and their relationships, hinting at more intricate stories that weave through the fabric of Hillsboro.
The Day of Glory
"The Day of Glory" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a novel written in the early 20th century. This poignant tale is centered around Jeanne Bruneau, a woman coping with the challenges and heart-wrenching complexities of life as a mother during World War I. The narrative delves into themes of hope, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of those who work tirelessly to maintain their family and humanity amidst the ravages of war. The opening of the novel introduces us to Jeanne, who juggles the demands of caring for her six children while desperately awaiting news from her husband, André, stationed at the front. Her daily life is portrayed vividly through her struggles with meager resources, the emotional toll of uncertainty, and the moments of joy found in small interactions with her children. As she navigates the tedious hardships of wartime life, Jeanne's inner strength shines through, showcasing her relentless hope and resilience, even as she wrestles with the fear of losing her husband to the war. The beginning sets a deeply emotional tone, drawing readers into the protagonist’s world and the heartbreaking realities faced by families during this tumultuous period.
Home Fires in France
"Home Fires in France" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a work of fiction written in the late 1910s. The book explores the experiences of both French and American characters in a French village during World War I, focusing on the impact of the war on everyday life, community, and familial relationships. The narrative particularly emphasizes the resilience of the human spirit amid adversity, presenting characters who grapple with loss and the longing for home. The opening of "Home Fires in France" introduces readers to a rural French village during the war, contrasting the lives of American soldiers with the deeply rooted history and cultural richness of the place. As the soldiers observe the village's storied past, they come to appreciate the continuity of life despite the ravages of war. This section also vividly describes the stark realities of rural existence, including how villagers cope with isolation and the community’s collective spirit during turbulent times. The narrative paints a picture of a close-knit community where daily labor and interdependence define existence, setting the stage for the emotional and physical struggles that will unfold throughout the book.
Hänen poikansa vaimo
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